I'm transcribing lyrics for this song for the upcoming Rise Again Songbook. I can't find a recording by Ray Hearne - it's supposed to be on his Broad Street Ballads album, but I can't find it anywhere. Can anybody help me get a copy of that cut?

I do have the recording by Roy Bailey. In general, I agree with Willa's transcription, but I have a few disagreements that I've underlined. Any corrections to my transcription?

Here's the Roy Bailey recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jveZ-WUtqkU.

CALLING JOE HILL
(Ray Hearne)

Where are the languages we spoke, sparks from the anvil
When we were music-minded folk? - calling Joe Hill

CHORUS
Calling calling, calling Joe Hill (2x)
(up 5) CEm FC Am G / FG Am DmG FC ://
(up 3)   D ↓(dn) GD D AAm / GA DBm EmA GD ://

Rhymes in the broken beechwoods ring, tuneless & chill
Into the darkness echoing, calling Joe Hill
Leaves in the wildernesses fall, fearing no ill
Down to the deepest note of all...
CHORUS

Through the archangel-haunted night, true songs may still
Quicken the dreamer's second sight....
Teller of elemental wrongs, teach me the skill-
Maker to maker, tongue to tongue...
CHORUS

Songs for the hopelessness of friends hauled through the mill
Songs with a meaning, in the end....
These are the heart's imaginings when there's a will
Even the broken beechwoods sing...

Ray Hearne


Roy Bailey sings "Even the broken beechwoods sing"
On his Broad St Ballads & Roy Bailey New Directions in the Old.


Corrected with lyrics sent to me by the songwriter, Ray Hearne. Thanks for your help, Roy. -Joe-

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That last verse could be "hopeless mess of friends," but I suppose not...